Seat configuration system for an automotive interior

ABSTRACT

A unique and versatile seating system for automobiles is provided. The seating system includes aspects to improve the functionality of the seating arrangement while maintaining the safety and comfort of the automotive seats. In certain embodiments, the seating system includes a reversible automotive seat that includes a seat cushion and a backrest. The backrest is movable between a forward seating position and a rearward seating position and includes an integrated restraint system which is operable to secure an occupant seated when the backrest is in either the forward or rearward seating positions.

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The invention relates to seating arrangements and configurations forautomotive vehicles, and, in particular, to seating systems forflexible, comfortable and safe automotive travel.

2. Background Art

Comfort, convenience and versatility are at a premium for today's moderntraveler. Accordingly, the automotive industry has taken significantsteps to accommodate the evolving needs of its customers. Examples ofsuch recent improvements in the automotive world include multi-zoneclimate control systems, passenger entertainment modules, andinterior/exterior vision systems.

To meet the needs of its customers, the desire to provide seatsadaptable for various travel situations has emerged. Families and othergroups often compromise between the need for comfortable and convenientseating arrangements and storage. To accommodate the varying needsamongst potential customers, various seating systems have become knownin the art.

One such seating apparatus allows users to detach and remove a vehicleseat from the vehicle's interior to increase the amount of storage spaceavailable. The vehicle seat can then be returned to the vehicle shouldadditional seating capacity be needed. While the removable seatapplication provides increased versatility for hauling either a largeamount of cargo, or rather, a large family, inserting and removing suchseats can be a cumbersome task. Further, such seats are often limited intheir movement and adjustability within the vehicle. Generally, two ormore individuals are required to unlatch and remove the seat from thevehicle. Once removed, a storage location for the bulky seat is thenneeded when the seat can be kept clean and dry.

Other seating devices allow for the flexibility between additionalstorage and additional seating capacity without necessarily removing oneor more seats. For example, many vehicles have foldable seats whereinthe backrest can be folded forward towards the seat cushion when not inuse to provide additional cargo room. Generally, the folded seatcollapses to create a portion of a floor for a cargo area. Such seatsare popular in SUVs and vans, but have also been introduced into thebackseat of cars to access the trunk. While such seating devices areconvenient for rapidly alternating between extra cargo room and extraseating, they provide little versatility for varying the seatingconfiguration to adjust for a host of traveling situations.

Recent trends show that today's travelers have a greater need forflexibility in their automotive interiors. More individuals are takingtheir business on the road and spend a great deal of time in theirautomobile. Still others have young families they wish to take on longdrives, perhaps during a vacation. To better accommodate the needs ofthese travelers, more flexible seating arrangements and configurationsare in need. For example, nothing currently in production provides for aflexible, convenient, safe, and comfortable way to travel while stillallowing passengers to conduct business face-to-face. Further, familiesare not afforded the option of allowing their children to either faceforward or rearward, without concern over seat belt restraint mechanismsor unsafe air bag deployment.

The previous known seating systems are problematic with regard toflexibility convenience, safety, and/or comfort. The present inventionovercomes the above disadvantages by providing a unique and trulyversatile seating arrangement and configuration system that maintainscomfort and safety standards during vehicle operation.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

Therefore, it is an aspect of the present invention to provide a trulyunique and versatile automotive seating system.

It is another aspect of the present invention to provide an apparatusfor flexible, convenient, and versatile seating during automotivetravel, including safe and comfortable alternative seating arrangementsand configurations.

Another aspect of the present invention is to provide automotive seatinghaving a reversible seat wherein the backrest can be adjusted to faceeither forward or rearward.

Yet another aspect of the present invention is to provide reversibleseats that allow the backrest to slide from the rear end of the seatcushion towards the front end of the seat cushion enabling the backrestto position in either the fore or the aft position.

Yet another aspect of the present invention is to provide automotiveseating wherein both sides of the backrest are contoured to offercomparable comfort, support, and safety in either the rearward-facing orforward-facing directions.

Still another aspect of the present invention is to provide safe,convenient, and flexible automotive seating arrangements andconfigurations for all types of travel, including conferencing/workareas for the business traveler and entertainment/play areas for thetraveling family.

Still another aspect of the present invention is to provide safe,convenient, and flexible reversible seats that can function similarly ineither the forward-facing or rearward-facing direction, including seatcushion adjustment vertically in both the front and rear, horizontally,and reclining.

Still yet another aspect of the present invention is to provide safe,convenient, and flexible automotive reversible seats wherein the seatbelt restraint system can adapt to properly restrain passengers facingeither forward or rearward.

Still yet another aspect of the present invention is to provide safe,convenient, and flexible automotive seating wherein airbag deploymentcan be deactivated upon adjusting the reversible seats in therearward-facing direction.

Yet another aspect of the present invention is to provide a rotatableheadrest to provide comparable comfort in a reversible seat when theseat is either forward-facing or rearward-facing.

And still yet another aspect of the present invention is to providesafe, convenient, and flexible reversible seating wherein a map pocketor pouch is attached to the seat such that it can alternate its positionin relation to the backrest depending on whether the backrest is in thefore or aft position.

Accordingly, numerous automotive seats of the present invention aredisclosed in this application. One such automotive seat comprises a seatcushion having a front portion and a rear portion. A backrest is coupledto the seat cushion and is movable between a forward seating position(front facing) and a rearward seating (rear facing) position. In theforward seating position, the backrest adjoins the rear portion of theseat cushion. In the rearward seating position, the backrest adjoins thefront portion of the seat cushion. The backrest contains a front faceand a back face. When in the forward seating position, a seatingsurface, generally defined by the front face of the backrest and theseat cushion, is provided. The seat cushion is tilted to provide aninclination from the seat back toward the edge of the seat for comfortand safety. However, when the backrest is in the rearward seatingposition, the seating surface is generally defined by the back face ofthe backrest and the seat cushion. Further when in the rearward seatingposition, the inclination of the seat cushion is reversed to providecomparable comfort and safety.

Other seats disclosed also comprise a restraint system integrated withthe backrest for securing a seat occupant thereto. The restraint systemis adaptable for securing the seat occupant when the backrest is ineither the forward seating position or the rearward seating position.Moreover, the front face and the back face of the backrest aresubstantially similarly contoured, both of which having lateralsupports.

Still other automotive seats described comprise an airbag deactivationdevice. The airbag deactivation device allows for a vehicle airbag to bedeployed upon a vehicle collision when the backrest is in the forwardseating position. However, the airbag deactivation device deactivatesthe airbag when the backrest is moved to the rearward seating position.

Also provided with other automotive seats disclosed is a reclinemechanism for altering the angle between the backrest and the seatcushion. The recline mechanism is operable with the backrest in eitherthe forward or rearward seating positions. A pair of armrests pivotallyattached to the backrest, are also adapted between the forward seatingposition and the rearward seating position. Moreover, a two-wayadjustable lumbar support is retained within the backrest between thefront face and the back face. The lumbar support is selectivelyadjustable to support an occupant when the backrest is in either theforward or rearward seating positions.

Correspondingly, an automotive vehicle interior having a seatingarrangement system is provided. The automotive vehicle comprises aninterior having a front cabin, a rear cabin, and an intermediate cabin.A first row of seats generally located within the front cabin of theinterior is provided. Behind the first row of seats is a second row ofseats, generally parallel to the first row and located within theintermediate cabin of the interior. Finally, a third row of seats,generally parallel to and positioned behind the second row, is locatedwithin the rear cabin of the interior. The vehicle utilizes at least oneof the numerous seats disclosed and may include a seat cushion and abackrest movable between a forward seating position and a rearwardseating position. The backrest adjoining a rear portion of the seatcushion when in the forward seating position, while the backrest adjoinsa front portion of the seat cushion when in the rearward seatingposition. The backrest further comprises a front face and a back face,both substantially similarly contoured. Further, the seat includes atwo-way lap and shoulder restraint system integrated with the backrestfor use in connection with either the front face or the back face of thebackrest.

Further the at least one of the numerous seats disclosed may be locatedin the second row such that the at least one seat can be adjusted sothat the backrest is in the rearward seating position, allowing anoccupant to face the third row of seats. Moreover, the at least one seatcan be located in the third row such that the at least one seat can beadjusted so that the backrest is in the rearward seating position,allowing an occupant to face the rear of the vehicle. Finally, the atleast one seat is located in the first row such that the at least oneseat can be adjusted so that the backrest is in the rearward seatingposition, allowing an occupant to face the second row of seats.

The above aspects and other objects, features, and advantages of thepresent invention are readily apparent from the following detaileddescription of the best mode for carrying out the invention when takenin connection with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 a is an environmental view of a vehicle interior having areversible seat, according to a certain embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 1 b is an environmental view of a vehicle interior having areversible seat, according to an alternate embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 1 c is an environmental view of a vehicle interior having areversible seat, according to yet another embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 2 a is a perspective view of a certain embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 2 b is another perspective view of a certain embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 2 c is another perspective view of a certain embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 3 a is a side view of a reversible seat in the forward seatingposition;

FIG. 3 b is a side view of a reversible seat in FIG. 3 a beingtranslated from the forward seating position to the rearward seatingposition;

FIG. 3 c is a side view of a reversible seat in FIG. 3 a in the rearwardseating position including the reversible seat in the forward seatingposition shown in phantom;

FIG. 3 d is a side view of another reversible seat in the forwardseating position;

FIG. 3 e is a side view of the reversible seat in FIG. 3 d in therearward seating position;

FIG. 3 f is a side view of another reversible seat in the forwardseating position;

FIG. 3 g is a cross-sectional view along the line, 3 g, of FIG. 3 f.

FIG. 4 a is a front view of a reversible seat in the forward seatingposition;

FIG. 4 b is a front view of the reversible seat in FIG. 4 a in therearward seating position;

FIG. 4 c is an alternate reversible seat in the forward seatingposition;

FIG. 4 d is a plan view illustrating the shoulder strap of one of theseats of the present invention;

FIG. 5 a is a top view of a reversible seat in the forward seatingposition;

FIG. 5 b is a top view of the reversible seat in FIG. 5 a in therearward seating position;

FIG. 5 c is a top view of the reversible seat in FIG. 5 a illustratingpivotal movement of the seat belt bezel;

FIG. 6 a is a top sectional view of a reversible seat taken along theline 6 a-6 a shown in FIG. 4 a, and illustrating a lumbar supportfeature;

FIG. 6 b is a top sectional view of the reversible seat in FIG. 4 aillustrating the lumbar support of FIG. 6 a activated;

FIG. 6 c is a top sectional view of a reversible seat taken along theline 6 a-6 a shown in FIG. 4 a illustrated in the forward seatingposition.

FIG. 6 d is a view of the cross section of the reversible seat in FIG. 6c shown in the rearward seating position;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the stop mechanism internal to anarmrest according to a certain embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8 is a side view detailing the reversible recline mechanismaccording to a certain embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 9 a is a side view of one of the seats of the present inventionshown in the forward seating position;

FIG. 9 b is a side view of one of the seats of the present inventionillustrating a first fold mechanism;

FIG. 9 c is a side view of a seat of the present invention furtherillustrating the first fold mechanism;

FIG. 9 d is a seat of the present invention illustrating a first tumblemechanism;

FIG. 10 a is a seat of the present invention illustrated in the rearwardseating position;

FIG. 10 b is a side view of a seat of the present invention utilizing asecond fold and tumble mechanism;

FIG. 11 is a frontal view of a headrest of one of the seats of thepresent invention;

FIG. 12 a is a side view of one of the seats of the present inventionillustrated in its forward most position;

FIG. 12 b is a side view of the seat of the present invention shown inFIG. 12 a in its rear most seating position;

FIG. 12 c is a frontal view of the seat of the present invention shownin FIG. 12 a;

FIG. 13 a is a side view of one of the seats of the present inventionillustrating a locking mechanism for the seat back;

FIG. 13 b is a frontal view with a cross section through the seatcushion illustrating the locking mechanism of one of the seats of thepresent invention in the unlocked position;

FIG. 13 c is a frontal view with a cross section through the seatcushion illustrating the locking mechanism of one of the seats of thepresent invention in the locked position;

FIG. 13 d is an alternate locking arrangement for one of the seats ofthe present invention illustrated in the unlocked position;

FIG. 14 a is a side view of an alternate embodiment of one of the seatsof the present invention illustrating a seat back locking mechanism;

FIG. 14 b is a frontal view with a cross section through the seatcushion illustrating the locking mechanism illustrated in FIG. 14 a;

FIG. 15 a is a view of a seat plate of one of the seats of the presentinvention in a forward or rearward seating position;

FIG. 15 b is a seat plate of one of the seats of the present inventionillustrated in the sideward seating position;

FIG. 15 c is a side view of one of the seats of the present inventionillustrated in the forward seating position; and

FIG. 15 d is a front view of one of the seats of the present inventionillustrated in the forward seating position.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein.However, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments aremerely exemplary of an invention that may be embodied in various andalternative forms. Therefore, specific functional details disclosedherein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as arepresentative basis for the claims and/or as a representative basis forteaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the presentinvention.

One aspect of the present invention is directed to an apparatus andsystem for providing a more flexible interior package for automotivevehicles described in greater detail below, the system, according to thepresent invention, allows vehicle passengers to readily adapt theirseating arrangement to be more conducive to practical travel situations,without compromising passenger comfort and safety. The ability of thesystem of the present invention to allow unique and versatile seatingoptions decreases the burden on passengers when traveling viaautomobile.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1 a-1 d, vehicle 10 having a flexibleinterior package in accordance with a certain embodiment of the presentinvention is illustrated. Vehicle 10 is preferably a sport utilityvehicle (SUV), van, or any such vehicle having at least three rows ofseats, but may also be included in a standard sedan-type vehicle.Vehicle 10 includes interior 12 comprised of front cabin 14, rear cabin16, and intermediate cabin 18. Front cabin 14 generally encompasses thearea of interior 12 nearest the instrument panel 13, while rear cabin 16generally encompasses the area of interior 12 nearest the rear ofvehicle 10. Correspondingly, intermediate cabin 18 generally encompassesthe area interposed between front cabin 14 and rear cabin 16.

Interior 12 further comprises first row seats 20 located within frontcabin 14. Preferably, at least two seats comprise first row 20.Typically, as shown in FIGS. 1 a-1 c, first row seats 20 face forwardtoward windshield 22 and are generally aligned laterally across vehicle10. In a certain embodiment, each seat in first row 20 is capable oftranslating linearly along the vehicle floor between a fore position,towards the front of vehicle 10, and an aft position, towards the rearof vehicle 10. It is therefore contemplated that any apparatus andmethod for providing horizontal travel of a vehicle seat between a foreposition and an aft position can be utilized in accordance with thepresent invention, such as is known in the seat track art. For example,International Publication No. WO 02/14103 A1 discloses such a seat trackarrangement, and is hereby incorporated by reference. An improved andunique seat track arrangement is also disclosed herein and describedsubsequently with regard to FIGS. 12 a-12 c.

Front cabin 14 is further defined by a forward boundary and a rearwardboundary. The forward boundary, for example, can be dashboard 13 or someother object generally defining a boundary between interior 12 and anengine compartment of vehicle 10. The rearward boundary, on the otherhand, is generally defined by the rearmost limit of a seat in first row20 when translated in the aft position.

Second row of seats 28 is generally located within intermediate cabin18. Preferably, at least two seats comprise second row 28. Morepreferably, three seats comprise second row 28. Second row 28 isgenerally parallel to and positioned behind first row 20, as depicted inFIGS. 1 a-1 c. In a certain embodiment, each seat in second row 28 iscapable of translating linearly along the vehicle floor between a foreposition, towards the front of vehicle 10, and an aft position, towardsthe back of vehicle 10, similar to first row 20. Again, it iscontemplated that any apparatus and method for providing horizontaltravel of a vehicle seat between a fore position and an aft position canbe utilized in accordance with the present invention. Further, therearmost limit of a seat in second row 28 when translated in the aftposition defines the boundary between intermediate cabin 18 and rearcabin 16.

Finally, third row of seats 30, generally located within rear cabin 16,is provided. Preferably at least two seats comprise third row 30. Morepreferably, three seats comprise third row 30. Third row 30 is generallyparallel to and positioned behind second row 28, as illustrated in FIGS.1 a-1 d. Like first row 20 and second row 28, each seat in third row 30may be capable of translating linearly along the vehicle floor between afore position, towards the front of vehicle 10, and an aft position,towards the back of vehicle 10. It is contemplated that any apparatusand method for providing horizontal travel of a vehicle seat between afore position and an aft position can be utilized in accordance with thepresent invention, such as is known in the seat track art. Further, rearcabin 16 is bounded to the rear by an object such as liftgate 17, or arear door, or possibly an additional row of seats. It is fullycontemplated that additional rows of seats can be provided withoutlimiting the scope of this invention.

Referring now to FIGS. 3 a-3 c, a seat 34 according to a certainembodiment of the present invention is illustrated. Reversible seat 34is generally comprised of seat cushion 36 and backrest 38. Seat cushion36 includes front portion 40, rear portion 42, upper surface 44, andlower surface 46. Seat cushion 36 is operatively coupled to supportingstructure 21. Front portion 40 is the portion of seat cushion 36 nearestthe front of vehicle 10, while rear portion 42 is the portion of seatcushion 36 nearest the rear of vehicle 10. Preferably, upper surface 44is contoured to provide lateral support, best shown in FIG. 4 a.Moreover, upper surface 44 is generally symmetrical such that frontportion 40 and rear portion 42 are substantially similarly contoured toallow an occupant to sit on seat cushion 36 and comfortably face eitherforward or rearward.

Backrest 38 is coupled to seat cushion 36 such that it is movablebetween a forward seating position (FIG. 3 a) and a rearward seatingposition (FIG. 3 c). The term seat cushion is used herein, but it shouldbe appreciated that the term is intended to include not only the cushionitself but all related structure such as the seat base, rail or anchor.When backrest 38 is adjusted in the forward seating position, adjoiningrear portion 42 of seat cushion 36, reversible seat 34 faces forward, asis illustrated in FIG. 3 a. When backrest 38 is adjusted in the rearwardseating position, adjoining front portion 40 of seat cushion 36,reversible seat 34 faces rearward, as illustrated in FIG. 3 c.Accordingly, backrest 38 has front face 48 and back face 50, may besubstantially similarly contoured and adapted to support an occupant'sback which rests thereupon. For example, an occupant in reversible seat34 is supported by front face 48 of backrest 38 when backrest 38 is inthe forward seating position. Alternatively, an occupant in reversibleseat 34 is supported by back face 50 of backrest 38 when backrest 38 isin the rearward seating position. Preferably, both front face 48 andback face 50 are contoured to provide lateral support. Therefore, anoccupant can comfortably rest in reversible seat 34 while facingrearward without foregoing any of the comfort normally obtained fromstandard non-reversible automotive seats.

Alternate constructions and designs of a seat back for use in thepresent invention are further disclosed in FIGS. 6 a-6 d when thesubstantial similar contour of the seat back is shown in detail. Asshown, the cross section of a seat back 38 include side lateral supports39 and center support 41. The lateral supports in 39 and center supports41 are disposed on both the front face 48 and back face 50 of the seatback 38. As can be appreciated by viewing FIG. 6 a, a desirable shapefor seat back 38 is contoured to provide lateral support when used inboth a forward and a rearward seating position. FIGS. 6 a-6 b alsodisclose lumbar support 96 is illustrated within backrest 38. Lumbarsupport 96 provides varying degrees of back support depending on thepreferences of a seat occupant. Lumbar support 96 can provide sufficientsupport to a user whether seated when backrest 38 is in the forwardseating position or rearward seating position. In a certain embodiment,lumbar support 96 comprises bladder 120 and pump and solenoid assembly122. The solenoid is electrically coupled to rocker switch 124 (shown inFIGS. 4 a-4 b). The depression of rocker switch 124 in one directionactivates pump and solenoid assembly 122, thereby inflating bladder 120.The inflation of bladder 120 causes both front face 48 and back face 50to extend outward effectuating support for occupants regardless ofwhether they face forward or rearward, as depicted in FIG. 6 b. Ofcourse, if less support is desired, a user merely depresses rockerswitch 124 in the opposite direction to relieve bladder 120.

FIGS. 6 c and 6 d provide an alternative arrangement for thesubstantially similarly contoured seat back 38 of FIGS. 6 a and 6 b. InFIG. 6 c, the back face 50 of the seat back 38 is substantially planar.However, front face 48 is appropriately contoured to provide lateralsupport for the occupant. The construction of the seat back 38 includesa center plate 51 with at least one airbag or bladder 53 a, 53 b and 53c disposed near the front face the bladders can be inflated to providethe appropriate contour for the front face 48. When in the rearwardseating position, illustrated in FIG. 6 d, the airbags 53 a, 53 b and 53c are substantially deflated disposed on the opposing side of the centerplate 51 is a second compliment of airbags 55 a, 55 b and 55 c which maybe inflated to provide a contour to the back face 50 while the seat isin the rearward seating position. It should be noted that the bladders53 and 55 can be automatically or manually controlled or adjusted by useof an electric motor.

Returning to FIG. 3 a, seating surface 52 is illustrated. Seatingsurface 52 is the surface created by seat cushion 36 and backrest 38 forsupporting an occupant when reversible seat 34 is facing forward.Accordingly, seating surface 52 is generally defined by upper surface 44and front face 48 of seat back 38 when backrest 38 is in the forwardseating position.

Seating surface 52′ is illustrated in FIG. 3 c. Seating surface 52′ isthe surface created by seat cushion 36 and backrest 38 for supporting anoccupant when reversible seat 34 is facing rearward. As such, seatingsurface 52′ is defined by upper surface 44 and back face 50 whenbackrest 38 is in the rearward seating position. Seating surface 52′ issubstantially the mirror image of seating surface 52.

Seat 34 further includes headrest 54 affixed to the top of backrest 38.Preferably, headrest 54 is shaped and positioned to provide adequatesupport for an occupant's head whether backrest 38 is in the forwardseating position or the rearward seating position. Most preferably,headrest 54 is contoured such that it affords an occupant the samecomfort and safety regardless of which direction the occupant faces whensitting in reversible seat 34. Alternatively, headrest 54 may rotateabout the z-axis. For example, headrest 54 may include a single post 57extending therefrom. Post 57 may include a plurality of slots 59 forsetting the height of headrest 54. Post 57 is disposed to extend into anopening 61 in the seat back 38. Operatively coupled to the seat back 38is an engagement member 63 that is adapted for insertion into one ofsaid plurality of slots 59. The engaging member 63 is biased toward thepost 57 by a spring or other suitable structure so as to firmly maintainthe headrest 54 in position. It should be appreciated that post 57 canrotate about a z-axis in accordance with the arrow 167. It should alsobe appreciated that the plurality of openings 59 extend laterallythrough post 57 such that when headrest 54 is rotated 180° the engagingmember 63 may be also used to position the headrest 54 in the desiredheight position.

In a certain embodiment, generally illustrated in FIGS. 3 a-3 c,backrest 38 is slidably movable from a forward seating position to arearward seating position. Accordingly, backrest 38 is coupled eitherdirectly or indirectly (through a related structure) to seat cushion 36or base by a pair of seat brackets 56, one on either side of reversibleseat 34 (see FIG. 4 a or 4 b). Seat brackets 56 can be either fixedly orpivotally attached to backrest 38 at one end. At the other end, seatbracket 56 is affixed to a pair of laterally spaced guide members 58.Guide members 58 may contact the lower surface 46 of seat cushion 36.The opposing guide members 58 are spaced apart such that each guidemember generally runs below a corresponding side of seat cushion 36, asbest shown in FIG. 4 a. Each guide member 58 extends from first end 60to second end 62. First end 60 is positioned adjacent front portion 40,while second end 62 is positioned adjacent rear portion 42. Contactmembers 56 are slidably engaged with guide members 58 by use of asliding member 64 linking contact members 56 to guide members 58.Sliding member 64 can be a bearing, roller, or the like, that cansmoothly travel along guide members 58 from second end 62 correspondingto a forward seating position, to first end 60, corresponding to therearward seating position. FIG. 3 b depicts backrest 38 when slidingfrom the forward seating position to the rearward seating position atapproximately the half-way point of travel.

Guide members 58 can be an arcuate metal track, such as depicted inFIGS. 3 a-3 c, certain implementations of the present invention mayutilize a straight or linear metal track. In either instance, both firstends 60 and second ends 62 may include a locking member 65 for securingbackrest 38 in either the forward seating position or the rearwardseating position. Locking member 65 prevents backrest 38 from slidingalong guide members 58, when it is not desired to do so. Locking member65 can be a mechanical latch, tether, or the like. Certain lockingdesigns are illustrated in FIGS. 13 and 14. It should be appreciatedthat instead of using a guide member or related structure to translatethe seat back, the seat back may be selectively engageable at a forwardposition and a rearward position.

FIGS. 13 a-13 c illustrate a first locking design. As illustrated, theseat bracket 56 includes an action bolt 157 operatively connectedthereto. Preferably, the action bolt is formed in a bow-tie shape and ismovable from a first position (illustrated in FIG. 13 b) and a lockposition disclosed in (illustrated in FIG. 13 c). The action bolt 157may cooperate with a reinforced opening formed in the seat cushion 36,or alternatively, stiffening rods 163 formed as part of the seat.Further, it is also contemplated that the action bolt 157 may beattached to the seat cushion and cooperate with a mating hole formed inthe seat bracket 56. It also should be appreciated that although thelefthand side of the vehicle seat is illustrated, a similar apparatus ispreferably disclosed on the opposing side of the vehicle seat. Forsimplicity, however, only the lefthand side structure is disclosed indetail herein. It should also be appreciated that action bolt 157 maycooperate with a slot 65 formed in the seat frame structure 67 disposedbelow seat cushion 38.

An alternative locking mechanism could be accomplished by way of apivotable latch 69 and attachment bar 71 illustrated in FIGS. 14 a and14 b. The pivotable latch 69 is attached to the seat cushion or relatedstructure is disposed to move about a pivot pin 73 having a first leverhand 75 and a second locking hand 77. Second locking hand 77 is disposedto engage with attachment bar 71 to retain backrest 38 in the desiredposition. It should be appreciated that pivotable latch 69 can beactivated manually, or preferably, activated by electric motorautomatically when backrest 38 is in the desired forward or rearwardseating position.

Also disclosed in FIG. 13 a is an alternate sliding member 64construction. As illustrated, sliding member 64 can be constructed oftwo formations or rollers to facilitate ease of travel and support ofthe backrest.

Returning to FIG. 3, in another certain embodiment, reversible seat 34further comprises biasing member 67. Biasing member 67 is operablyconnected to guide members 58 to tilt or incline front portion 40 ofseat cushion 36 such that front portion 40 is positioned higher thanrear portion 42 when backrest 38 is in the forward seating position.Alternatively, biasing member 67 tilts rear portion 42 such that it ispositioned higher than front portion 40 when backrest 38 is in therearward seating position. Biasing member 67 comprises first pivotingcam 68 and second pivoting cam 70. First pivoting cam 68 is coupledbetween the first ends 60 of guide members 58, while second pivoting cam70 is coupled between the second ends 62 of guide members 58. Both firstpivoting cam 68 and second pivoting cam 70 are generally verticallybiased by a spring, coil, or D.C. motor. When sliding member 64 reachessecond end 62 of guide member 58, the vertical bias of second pivotingcam 70 is overcome such that second pivoting cam 70 is caused to berotated to a more horizontal position, as shown in FIG. 3 a. Preferably,sliding member 64 contacts and releases the spring, coil, or D.C. motorthat vertically biases the second pivoting cam 70. It should be notedthat the D.C. motor used for biasing the pivoting cams 68 and 70 canalso be used to provide power to translate the vehicle seat fore and afton the vehicle floor. Moving sliding member 64 away from second end 62while transitioning backrest 38 from the forward seating position towardthe rearward seating position, second pivoting cam 70 returns to itsvertically biased position. Once sliding member 64 terminates in firstend 60 of guide member 58, the vertical bias of first pivoting cam 68 isovercome, causing first pivoting cam 68 to rotate toward a generallyhorizontal position, as illustrated in FIG. 3 c. Accordingly, firstpivoting cam 68 aligns front portion 40 of seat cushion 36 slightlyabove rear portion 42 when backrest 38 is moved to the forward seatingposition. Correspondingly, second pivoting cam 70 aligns rear portion 42of seat cushion 36 slightly above front portion 40 when backrest 38 ismoved to the rearward seating position.

An alternate tilting or inclination mechanism is illustrated in FIGS. 3d-3 e. The front portion of the seat cushion 40 may be raised byinflating a front bladder 79 via an electric D.C. motor. To lower thefront portion 40 of cushion 36, bladder 79 is deflated. The rear portion42 of cushion 36 can then be raised by inflating a second rear bladder81 as shown in FIG. 3 e. Each bladder 79 and 81 is illustrated as beingoperated by a separate motor 83 and 85. It should be, however,appreciated that both may be inflated by the use of only one motor. Theinflating and deflating of bladders 79 and 81 corresponds to theposition of the backrest 38, such that when the backrest 38 is in theforward seating position, front bladder 79 is inflated while rearbladder 81 is deflated providing an inclination such that the frontportion 40 of the seat cushion 36 is positioned higher than the rearportion 42 of the seat cushion 36. As the backrest 38 is transitioned tothe rearward seating position, the first bladder 79 is deflated and therear bladder 81 is inflated automatically to provided an inclinationsuch that the rear portion 42 of the seat cushion 36 is positionedhigher than the front portion 40 of the seat cushion 36.

FIGS. 3 f and 3 g illustrate yet another reversing mechanism of thepresent invention. FIG. 3 e includes an illustration of a guide tube200. The tube is attached at its ends to the seat cushion 36 or relatedstructure. Attachments brackets 202 couple the guide tube to the seatcushion. The backrest 38 includes a seat back bracket 56. The seat backbracket 56 is preferably J-shaped as shown in FIG. 3 g. Attached to theseat back bracket 56 is a pair of follower blocks 204 and 206. Followerblocks 204 and 206 are adapted to cooperate with guide tube 200 toprovide a track upon which seat back 38 is translated from a forwardseating position to a rearward seating position. Seat back bracket 56also is attached to a screw 208 with a pair of nuts 210. Screw 208 isattached to a DC motor 212. Activation of the motor causes the screw torotate which turns around nuts 210 and causes seat back 38 to transitionfrom a rearward seating position to a forward seating position.

In yet another certain embodiment, reversible seat 34 includes armrests88 pivotally attached to backrest 38 for providing support for anoccupant's arms. Preferably, armrests 88 can pivot approximately 180°.As shown in FIG. 3 a, armrests 88 is positioned such that it can beutilized when backrest 38 of reversible seat 34 is in the forwardseating position. Should an occupant desire to move backrest 38 to therearward seating position, then armrests 88 can be rotated about a pivotto provide similar arm support, as illustrated in FIG. 3 c. Of course,if an occupant does not desire to utilize armrests 88, then the occupantcan rotate armrests 88 to a vertical position alongside backrest 38, asdepicted in FIG. 3 b.

Referring now to FIG. 7, the internal mechanical interaction of armrest88 and backrest 38 is illustrated. Armrest 88 further comprises armreststop 89 operably connected to armrest 88. Armrest stop 89 which, in thepreferred embodiment, is a mechanical stop formed by pin 140 whichextends through two semi-circular circumferential slots 142 in tube 144fixedly attached to backrest 38. Stop 89 prevents movement of armrest 88below a generally horizontal plane whether rotated to support the arm ofan occupant in the forward or rearward seating position.

With reference to FIGS. 4 a-4 d, restraint system 72 is preferably athree-point restraint system having lap strap 74 and shoulder strap 76.However, it is fully contemplated that other restraint systems may beavailable for use in the present invention, such as the 4-pointrestraint system illustrated in FIG. 4 c. Restraint system 72 is fullyintegrated with backrest 38, and reversible such that it can be utilizedwhen backrest 38 is in either the forward seating position or therearward seating position. As such, restraint system 72 furthercomprises lap strap fastener 78 affixed to a bottom corner of backrest38 and shoulder strap retractor affixed to a top corner of backrest 38.In the present aspect of the invention, shoulder strap retractors havebeen used for many years. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,895,090 disclosesa retractor integrated within a seat, and is hereby incorporated byreference. Shoulder strap retractor (disposed within backrest 38)receives the belt through slot 82, best shown in FIG. 4 d. Slot 82extends from the front face 48 of backrest 38 through the side of acollapsible can 89 to the rear face 50 of the backrest. It should beappreciated that shoulder strap 76 can be translated from a firstposition shown in FIG. 4 d to a second position shown in phantom in FIG.4 d for use when the seat backrest is in its rearward facing position.

Another embodiment of a retractor is shown in FIG. 5 a where slot 82 islocated at its top such that shoulder strap 76 extends and retracts fromor near the top of backrest 38. Lap strap 74 is pivotally attached tothe side of backrest 38 by lap strap fastener 78. Lap strap 74 andshoulder strap 76 engage seat buckle 84 for securing the lap strap 74and shoulder strap 76 to a seat latch 87. Preferably, latch 87 ispivotally attached at seat latch fastener 85 to a side of backrest 38opposite lap strap fastener 78. However, it is fully contemplated thatlatch 87 can be attached directly to backrest 38, or a similar partmovable with backrest 38. When backrest 38 is moved from the forwardseating position to the rearward seating position, restraint system 72is modified from securing an occupant to front face 48 to insteadsecuring an occupant to back face 50. Lap strap 74 and shoulder strap 76can be reversed so that they extend over backrest 38 proximate back face50, as is best shown in FIG. 5 b. Further, seat latch 87 pivots asufficient amount to be accessible by an occupant in reversible seat 34facing rearward for securement to back face 50. Alternatively, theseatbelt retractor may be placed in the lower portion of the backrest 38such that the lap strap 74 is directed into the retractor. The shoulderstrap 76 is then rigidly attached to the backrest 38, preferably at ornear the top portion thereof. The slot 82, however, may be pivotablyattached via bezel 80 to the backrest 38 such that the bezel may pivotabout the backrest to allow the shoulder strap 76 to be positioned onthe front face 48 of the backrest when in the forward seating positionand on the rear face 50 when the seat is in the rearward facing positionas shown in FIG. 5 c.

With regard now to FIG. 8, reversible seat 34 contains recline mechanism86 for reclining backrest 38. Recline mechanism 86 alters the anglebetween backrest 38 and seat cushion 36 to adjust to the particularpreference of each occupant. Moreover, recline mechanism 86 is operableto adjust the angle of backrest 38 in relation to seat cushion 36 whenbackrest 38 is in either the forward seating position or the rearwardseating position. Recline mechanism 86 is comprised of spring coil 130having a coil first end 132 and a coil second end 134. First end 132 isaffixed to backrest 38, while second end 134 is fixed to either thebackrest 38 at its pivot point or to a plate 133 extending from thebackrest 38. Spring coil 130 vertically biases backrest 38 to an uprightposition. Rotational movement about a pivot near the base of backrest 38causes spring coil 130 to extend or contract, depending on whether auser is reclining backrest 34 in the forward seating position orrearward seating position. In either instance, spring coil 130 desiresto return backrest 38 to the biased upright and vertical position.Spring coil 130 can include any number of turns as is necessary toprovide a sufficient vertical bias. Moreover, it is contemplated thatmultiple spring coils may be used in conjunction with the presentinvention. It is also contemplated to provide a stop mechanism 136 tolimit the rotational movement of the backrest 38.

Additionally, it is quite common for the backside of a backrest of anautomobile seat to contain a pouch for retaining items such as travelmaps, books, or other articles commonly associated with travel for theconvenience of the passenger immediately behind the particular seat.Typically, such pouches are sewn or permanently attached to the backsideof the backrest. However, such a pouch would not be practical for use inconjunction with a reversible seat because it is permanently attached tothe backside of a backrest and would make for an uncomfortable surfacefor an occupant to rest against, particularly if the pouch contains anyitems. Accordingly, in yet another certain embodiment, reversible pocket90 is attached to backrest 38 of reversible seat 34, as shown in FIGS. 3a-3 b. Reversible pocket 90 is movable from back face 50 to front face48 to accommodate reversible seat 34 when backrest 38 is in either theforward seating position or rearward seating position, respectively.Pocket 90 is designed to retain articles for travel similar to that oftraditional backrest pouches. Pocket 90, for example, can be selectivelyattached to back face 50 as shown in FIG. 3 a, wherein upper strap 92 issecured around headrest 54. Upon moving backrest 38 from the forwardseating position to the rearward seating position, lower strap 94 can bedisengaged from the base of backrest 38 so that pocket 90 can be rotatedsuch that it rests against front face 48, as shown in FIG. 3 c. Once inposition, lower strap 94 can then again be secured to the base ofbackrest 38. It is, of course, fully contemplated that alternativemethods for implementing and securing reversible pocket 90 areavailable, such as attaching pocket 90 to lateral sides 95 of backrest38 by an elastic material 97 that allows for the pocket 90 to be movedfrom the front face 48 to the back face 50 and vice versa by stretchingthe elastic material 97 such that the pocket 90 can be translated overthe backrest 38 as shown in FIG. 3 b.

With reference now to FIGS. 2 a, 2 b, and 2 c, a perspective view ofinterior 12 of vehicle 10 is provided. In a certain embodiment, at leastone seat 34 in second row 28 is equipped with a seat travel mechanismfor linearly translating the at least one reversible seat 34 to a foreposition and to an aft position. The seat travel mechanism, according tothis embodiment, is capable of translating the at least one reversibleseat to the fore position such that the at least one reversible seatlocated in second row 20 surpasses the rearward boundary of front cabin14, positioning the at least one second row seat between a pair of seatslocated in first row 20. As a result, at least a portion of the at leastone second row seat resides in front cabin 14. In this instance, adriver or a passenger in first row 20 can more readily attend to aninfant or child occupying the at least one second row seat. Moreover,the at least one second row seat can be reversible seat 34 adaptablebetween a forward seating position and a rearward seating position. Forexample, the at least one second row seat translated to the foreposition such that a portion of it resides in front cabin 14 can beadapted to the rearward seating position for securing an infant seatthereto.

A mechanism to provide for linearly translating the seat is illustratedin FIGS. 12 a-12 c. The translation mechanism includes a base support140 which preferably includes two mounting structures 142 and 144. Abase track 146 is disposed connecting mounting structures 142 and 144. Amating seat track 148 is attached either directly or indirectly to seatcushion 36 and may extend the length of the seat cushion 36. Seat track148 matingly attaches to base track 146 for linear travel thereon.Vehicle seat 34 can be translated from a fore-position (illustrated inFIG. 12 a) to an aft-position (illustrated in FIG. 12 b). It should alsobe appreciated that there may be a base track disposed on each lateralside of seat cushion 36. Likewise, there may be two seat tracks 148disposed on lateral sides of the seat cushion. Further, seat cushion 36has disposed therefrom at least one caster 150 used to ensure balanceand smooth transition of the vehicle seat 34. Additionally, the seat mayinclude a second caster 152 disposed near the rear portion 42 of theseat cushion 36. As illustrated in FIGS. 12 a and 12 b, seat 34 can betranslated substantially from a fore-position to an aft-position.

In the present invention, when the seat 34 is in the forward facingposition, backrest 38 may be pivoted downward as shown in FIG. 9 b to aposition where the backrest 38 is substantially parallel to the vehiclefloor 150. The seat cushion 36 and backrest 38 can then be pivoted suchthat both are positioned perpendicular to the vehicle floor 150 as shownin FIG. 9 d. If the vehicle seat 34 is positioned in the rearwardseating position as shown in FIG. 10 a, the backrest 38 may be pivoteddownward in the direction of arrow 152 such that the backrest 38 andseat cushion 36 are both disposed parallel to vehicle floor 150. Themechanism to recline the backrest 38 to a position parallel with vehiclefloor 150 is disclosed in FIG. 8. Once folded, the seat back and seatcushion may be pivoted such that they are both disposed in a verticalposition with respect to the vehicle floor 150 as shown in FIG. 10 b.The mechanism for this adjustment may be identical to the mechanism thatprovides the translation between seat positions shown in FIGS. 9 c and 9d.

The present invention provides an improved uniquely versatile vehicleseat. To provide additional functionality and flexibility, the seatdisclosed in the present application may be pivoted about its base toprovide for a left or right seating position. As shown in FIGS. 15 and16, the seat cushion 36 may be pivotally mounted to a seat base 158having a pivot 160 and a plate 162. The plate 162 is disposed with atleast two anchor positions 164 and 166 so that the seat cushion 36 canbe rotated 90°. The seat cushion 36 also includes an attached lockingstructure 168 which may engage 164 or 166. It should be appreciated thatvehicle seat can pivot 90° about pin 160 so that the seat may betranslated from a forward facing position to a leftwardly seatingposition. It should be appreciated that the backrest 38 of the presentinvention can then be positioned on the opposing side of the seatcushion in a manner disclosed previously primarily with regard to FIGS.3 a-3 g such that a leftwardly facing seat can be modified to arightwardly facing seat. Additionally, the seat 34 can be positionedsuch that, if preferable, when in the leftwardly facing position or therightwardly facing position, the vehicle door cannot be closed nor canthe ignition be operated.

Referring back now to FIGS. 1 a-1 d, at least one reversible seat 34 isprovided in vehicle 10. Preferably, reversible seat 34 is of the typepreviously described is detail herein.

In accordance with a certain embodiment of the present invention, the atleast one reversible seat 34 is located in second row 28. Accordingly,the at least one reversible seat 34 can be adapted to face third row 30,as shown in FIG. 1 b. Preferably, second row 28 comprises a plurality ofreversible seats such that each reversible seat 34 can be adapted toface third row 30. In this embodiment, occupants in second row 28 faceoccupants in third row 30 facilitating face-to-face communications andeasing interaction therebetween. For example, passengers traveling forbusiness purposes can conduct meetings or conferences, while a drivertakes them to their destination. Table 98 can be erected between secondrow 28 and third row 30 to enhance productivity by providing a surfaceby which to rest business papers or other work materials. In thisembodiment, table 98 is similar to a conference table. As anotherexample, families traveling on long road trips, such as during avacation, may want to create an area for children to interact with oneanother. If desired, families could use table 98 to have a family mealduring a trip. In this embodiment, table 98 is similar to a café table.In a certain embodiment, table 98 includes table base 100, which isreceived by a receptacle in the floor of vehicle 10, affixing table 98thereto. Alternately, table 98 may not include a base, but rather isattachable to the sides of interior 12 such that it is supportedlaterally across interior 12 from one side to the other by projections15 formed on the indoor walls. It is fully contemplated that there aremany other reasons and uses for second row 28 to be adapted to facethird row 30, such as common viewing of an entertainment system placedon the side wall of the vehicle in accordance with the teachings of thepresent invention. Further, the uses suggested for table 98 are merelyexemplary, and it is contemplated that alternate uses are available.

Referring now to FIG. 1 c, the at least one seat 34 is located in thirdrow 30. Accordingly, the at least one reversible seat 34 can be adaptedto face rearward such that occupants in third row 30 can peer out therear of vehicle 10. It is contemplated that the at least one reversibleseat 34 comprises a plurality of reversible seats such that eachreversible seat 34 can be adapted to face rearward. In this particularembodiment, children of traveling families can sit in third row 30 andwatch the scenery behind vehicle 10 disappear off in the distance.Often, vehicles of the type shown and described herein as vehicle 10have liftgate 17 for providing access to rear cabin 16. When vehicle 10is at rest, passengers can open liftgate 17, climb into reversible seat34 located in third row 30, and enjoy the environment. For example,during a camping trip, while watching sporting events, or whiletailgating, passengers can partake in the festivities from third row 30,with liftgate 17 ajar. In the event the whether becomes inclement, thepassengers will be shielded while still having a great seat for enjoyingthe activities.

Additionally, the at least one seat 34 is located in first row 20.Accordingly, the at least one reversible seat 34 can be adapted to facesecond row 28. Preferably, the at least one reversible seat 34 in firstrow 20 comprises a plurality of reversible seats such that eachreversible seat 34 can be adapted to face second row 28. In thisparticular embodiment, a passenger can adjust his seat to face rearwardtoward the passengers in second row 28 or third row 30, while the driverremains facing forward to navigate vehicle 10. When vehicle 10 is not inmotion, the driver may also adjust his seat to face rearward towardpassengers in second row 28 or third row 30. However, when vehicle 10 isin motion, the driver's seat is prevented from being adjusted to facerearward by a seat locking device 104. Seat locking device 104 preventsbackrest 38 of the driver's seat from being adjusted to the rearwardseating position when the vehicle ignition switch is in the run-startmode. Conversely, seat locking device 104 prevents turning the ignitionswitch to the run-start mode when backrest 38 of the driver's seat isadjusted in the rearward seating position. Seat locking device 104 canbe an electromechanical device, such as a limit switch, proximityswitch, or the like, that sends a signal to corresponding locking member66 when the ignition switch is in the run-start position. Conversely,seat locking device 104 can send a signal to the vehicle's computer toeither allow or prevent vehicle 10 from starting, depending on theposition of reversible seat 34. Alternatively, seat locking device couldengage the transmission lock so that the engine will only idle toprovide HVAC and accessory power to the cabin. However, it iscontemplated that the ignition switch may be turned to the accessorymode regardless of driver seat position.

Although the at least one reversible seat 34 is shown and described ineither first row 20, second row 28 or third row 30, it is fullycontemplated that the at least one reversible seat 34 can be located infirst row 20, second row 28 and third row 30. Moreover, it is preferablethat each seat in vehicle 10 comprises reversible seat 34.

Although reversible seat 34 provides for flexible seating within vehicle10 for a multitude of travel situations standard on most vehicles todayare airbags, both for driver and passenger, to protect in the event of acollision. These airbags are designed to be deployed when an occupant isfacing forward toward the front of a vehicle. It may be unnecessary todeploy an airbag while an occupant faces rearward. Accordingly, eachreversible seat 34 is equipped with airbag deactivation device 106.Airbag deactivation device 106 enables an airbag to be deployed uponcollision when backrest 38 of reversible seat 34 is in the forwardposition. However, when reversible seat 34 is adjusted such thatbackrest 38 is in the rearward seating position, airbag deactivationdevice 106 disables the airbag. Airbag deactivation device 106 controlsonly the airbags corresponding to the reversible seat 34 to which thedevice is attached, but may be designed to correspond to a multitude ofseating arrangements. Moreover, it is contemplated that airbagdeactivation device 106 can enable one or more airbags, while disablingone or more other airbags, when reversible seat 34 is in the forwardseating position. Upon adjusting reversible seat 34 to the rearwardseating position, the previously enabled airbags become disabled, whilethe previously disabled airbags become enabled.

Airbag deactivation device 106 can be any device that senses theposition of backrest 38 and can differentiate between backrest 38 beingin the forward seating position or the rearward seating position, suchas a limit switch or a proximity sensor, or the like. Airbagdeactivation device 106 then sends an appropriate signal to the controlunit of the airbag enabling or disabling the airbag. Airbag deactivationdevice 106 can be used in conjunction with seat locking device 104 tosend signals to the appropriate modules. Moreover, it is contemplatedthat seat locking device 104 is the same as airbag deactivation device106.

Primarily in the second row of seats 28, there may be a need toreposition the seat to facilitate the ingress and egress of a third rowpassenger. Illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10 are alternative mechanisms tofacilitate the ingress and egress. Various multi-positional seats areknown in the art such as the “Multi-positional Seat Mounting Apparatus”of U.S. Pat. No. 6,000,742 which is incorporated herein by reference.

While the best mode for carrying out the invention has been described indetail, those familiar with the art to which this invention relates willrecognize various alternative designs and embodiments for practicing theinvention as defined by the following claims.

1. An automotive seat for a vehicle comprising: a seat cushion which, ina first position, is tilted such that a front seating portion ispositioned slightly higher than a rear seating portion, and a secondposition where said seat cushion is tilted such that the rear portion ispositioned slightly higher than the front portion; and a backrest havinga front face and a back face, a forward seating position having aseating surface generally defined by said front face of the backrest andsaid seat cushion in said first position and a rearward seating positionhaving a seating surface generally defined by the back face of thebackrest and the seat cushion in said second position; wherein thebackrest back face is contoured by use of a bladder system whilemaintaining the front face substantially planar.
 2. The inventionaccording to claim 1, further comprising: a lap and shoulder restraintsystem integrated wit the backrest for use in connection with either ofsaid front or back faces of said backrest.
 3. The invention according toclaim 2, wherein said lap and shoulder restraint system includes abuckle pivotally attached to said backrest.
 4. The invention accordingto claim 2, wherein said lap and shoulder restraint system includes ashoulder strap that retracts into said backrest at or near a top of saidbackrest.
 5. The invention according to claim 2, wherein said lap andshoulder restraint system includes a lap strap pivotally attached tosaid backrest at or near a bottom of said backrest.
 6. The inventionaccording to claim 2, wherein said backrest front face is expanded byuse of the bladder system while said rear face is substantially planaror concave.
 7. The invention according to claim 2, wherein said backrestfront face is contoured to provide lateral support.
 8. The inventionaccording to claim 2, further comprising a reversible pocket selectivelyattached to the backrest for retaining articles for travel, wherein thepocket is adjacent the back face of the backrest when the backrest is inthe forward seating position and is adjacent the front face of thebackrest when the backrest is in the rearward seating position.
 9. Theinvention according to claim 2, wherein said backrest back face iscontoured to provide lateral support.
 10. The invention according toclaim 2, wherein said seat cushion is contoured to provide lateralsupport.
 11. The invention according to claim 2, wherein said backrestis movable between a forward seating position where said backrest iscoupled to said rear portion of the seat cushion and a rearward seatingposition where said backrest is coupled to said front portion of theseat cushion.
 12. The invention according to claim 2 wherein saidbackrest is operatively locked in a rearward seating position by alocking mechanism disposed between said backrest and said seat cushion.13. The invention according to claim 1, wherein said backrest includes arecline mechanism for altering the angle between the backrest and theseat cushion, wherein the recline mechanism is operable with thebackrest in either the forward seating position or the rearward seatingposition.
 14. The invention according to claim 1, further comprising anarmrest pivotally attached to the backrest which can be pivoted toprovide arm support for a seat occupant when the backrest is in eitherthe forward or rearward seating positions.
 15. The invention accordingto claim 14, further comprising a stop that prevents movement of saidarmrest below a generally horizontal plane.
 16. The invention accordingto claim 1, wherein said bladder system is comprised of a plurality ofbladders to provide support on either of the front face or the rear faceof the backrest.
 17. The invention according to claim 1, wherein saidbackrest has a horizontal cross section having two lateral sides and amidsection therebetween, wherein said cross section is wider at eachlateral side than in the midsection.
 18. The invention according toclaim 8 further comprising: a stationary base member adapted to besecured to a vehicle floor and to the seat cushion; a seat track affixedto the lower surface of the seat cushion and slidably coupled to thestationary base member; and a first caster fixedly attached to the seatcushion nearest the front face.
 19. The invention according to claim 18further comprising a second caster fixedly attached to the seat cushionnearest the rear face.
 20. The invention according to claim 19 whereinthe first and second casters rest upon the vehicle floor duringoperation.
 21. An automotive seat for a vehicle comprising: a seatcushion which, in a first position, is tilted such that a front seatingportion is positioned slightly higher than a rear seating portion, and asecond position where said seat cushion is tilted such that the rearportion is positioned slightly higher than the front portion; a backresthaving a front face and a back face, a forward seating position having aseating surface generally defined by said front face of the backrest andsaid seat cushion in said first position and a rearward seating positionhaving a seating surface generally defined by the back face of thebackrest and the seat cushion in said second position; and an airbagdeactivation device which deactivates an airbag when the seat is in saidrearward seating position.
 22. The invention according to claim 21,wherein the airbag deactivation device is a limit switch.
 23. Theinvention according to claim 21, wherein the airbag deactivation deviceis a proximity switch.
 24. An automotive seat for a vehicle comprising:a seat cushion having a front portion and a rear portion; a backrestcoupled to the seat cushion and movable between a forward seatingposition where the backrest adjoins the rear portion and a rearwardseating position where the backrest adjoins the front portion, saidbackrest having a front face and a back face; a restraint systemintegrated with the backrest for use when said backrest is in either theforward seating position or the rearward seating position; and anadjustable lumbar support retained within the backrest between the frontface and the back face, wherein the lumbar support is selectivelyadjustable to support an occupant when the backrest is in either theforward or rearward seating positions; wherein said front face includesfront lateral supports for use when the backrest is in the forwardseating position, and said back face includes rear lateral supports foruse when the backrest is in the rearward seating position.
 25. Theinvention according to claim 24, further comprising a recline mechanismfor altering the angle between the backrest and the seat cushion,wherein the recline mechanism is operable with the backrest in eitherthe forward seating position or the rearward seating position.
 26. Theinvention according to claim 24, further comprising an armrest pivotallyattached to the backrest which can be pivoted to provide arm support fora seat occupant when the backrest is in either the forward or rearwardseating positions.
 27. The invention according to claim 26, furthercomprising a stop that prevents movement of said armrest below ahorizontal plane.
 28. The invention according to claim 24, furthercomprising a pocket selectively attached to the backrest for retainingarticles, wherein the pocket is juxtaposed with the back face of thebackrest when the backrest is in the forward seating position and isjuxtaposed with the front face of the backrest when the backrest is inthe rearward seating position.
 29. An automotive seat for a vehiclecomprising: a seat cushion which, in a first position, is tilted suchthat a front seating portion is positioned slightly higher than a rearseating portion, and a second position where said seat cushion is tiltedsuch that the rear portion is positioned slightly higher than the frontportion; a backrest having a front face and a back face, a forwardseating position having a seating surface generally defined by saidfront face of the backrest and said seat cushion in said first positionand a rearward seating position having a seating surface generallydefined by the back face of the backrest and the seat cushion in saidsecond position; and a reversible pocket selectively attached to thebackrest for retaining articles for travel, wherein the pocket isadjacent the back face of the backrest when the backrest is in theforward seating position and is adjacent the front face of the backrestwhen the backrest is in the rearward seating position; wherein saidpocket is attached to said backrest by an elastic material.
 30. Anautomotive seat for a vehicle comprising: a seat cushion having a frontportion and a rear portion; a backrest coupled to the seat cushion andmovable between a forward seating position where the backrest adjoinsthe rear portion and a rearward seating position where the backrestadjoins the front portion, said backrest having a front face and a backface; a restraint system integrated with the backrest for use when saidbackrest is in either the forward seating position or the rearwardseating position; and an airbag deactivation device which deactivatesthe airbag when the backrest is in the rearward seating position;wherein said front face includes front lateral supports for use when thebackrest is in the forward seating position, and said back face includesrear lateral supports for use when the backrest is in the rearwardseating position.
 31. The invention according to claim 30, wherein theairbag deactivation device is a limit switch.
 32. The inventionaccording to claim 30, wherein the airbag deactivation device is aproximity switch.
 33. An automotive seat for a vehicle comprising: aseat cushion having a base, a front seating portion and a rear seatingportion; a guide member affixed to the seat cushion, said guide memberextending from a first end adjacent the front portion to a second endadjacent the rear portion; a seat bracket slidably engaged with saidguide member; a backrest coupled to the seat cushion by said seatbracket and slidably movable along the guide member between a forwardseating position when the backrest adjoins the rear portion and arearward seating position when the backrest adjoins the front portion;and a biasing member operably connected to said guide member to tiltsaid front seating portion of said seat cushion such that said frontportion is positioned higher than said rear portion when in said forwardseating position; wherein said biasing member further comprises a firstpivoting cam coupled to said guide member near said first end, whereinsaid first cam is positioned to tilt said front portion of the seatcushion above the rear portion when said backrest is in said forwardseating position.
 34. The invention according to claim 33, furthercomprising a lap and shoulder restraint system integrated with thebackrest for use in connection with either a front face or a back faceof said backrest.
 35. The invention according to claim 33, wherein saidguide member includes a pair of linear tracks.
 36. The inventionaccording to claim 33, wherein said guide member includes a pair ofarcuate tracks.
 37. The invention according to claim 33, wherein saidguide member includes an elongated tube.
 38. The invention according toclaim 37, wherein said guide member cooperates with at least onefollower block attached to said seat bracket.
 39. The inventionaccording to claim 33, wherein said first pivoting cam is displaced bysaid seat bracket when said backrest is in said rearward seatingposition.
 40. The invention according to claim 39, wherein the first camis generally vertically biased and said first cam is caused to berotated generally horizontally when the backrest is in the rearwardseating position.
 41. The invention according to claim 33, wherein saidbiasing member further comprises a second pivoting cam coupled to theguide member near said second end, wherein said second cam is positionedto tilt said rear portion of the seat cushion above the front portionwhen said backrest is in said rearward seating position.
 42. Theinvention according to claim 41, wherein said second pivoting cam isdisplaced by said seat bracket when said backrest is in said forwardseating position.
 43. The invention according to claim 41, wherein thesecond cam is generally vertically biased and said second cam is causedto be rotated generally horizontally when the backrest is in the forwardseating position.
 44. An automotive seat for a vehicle comprising: aseat cushion having a base, a front seating portion and a rear seatingportion; a guide member affixed to the seat cushion, said guide memberextending from a first end adjacent the front portion to a second endadjacent the rear portion; a seat bracket slidably engaged with saidguide member; a backrest coupled to the seat cushion by said seatbracket and slidably movable along the guide member between a forwardseating position when the backrest adjoins the rear portion and arearward seating position when the backrest adjoins the front portion; abiasing member operably connected to said guide member to tilt saidfront seating portion of said seat cushion such that said front portionis positioned higher than said rear portion when in said forward seatingposition; and a locking member at each end of said guide member forsecuring the backrest in either the forward seating position or therearward seating position.
 45. An automotive seat for a vehiclecomprising: a seat cushion which, in a first position, is tilted suchthat a front seating portion is positioned slightly higher than a rearseating portion, and a second position where said seat cushion is tiltedsuch that the rear portion is positioned slightly higher than the frontportion; a backrest having a front face and a back face, a forwardseating position having a seating surface generally defined by saidfront face of the backrest and said seat cushion in said first positionand a rearward seating position having a seating surface generallydefined by the back face of the backrest and the seat cushion in saidsecond position; and a reversible pocket selectively attached to thebackrest for retaining articles for travel, wherein the pocket isadjacent the back face of the backrest when the backrest is in theforward seating position and is adjacent the front face of the backrestwhen the backrest is in the rearward seating position; wherein saidpocket is attached at lateral sides of the backrest.